Mercedes added: "Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Maria de Villota following the tragic news of her passing."

"It is with great sadness that we learned a short time ago of the news that Maria de Villota has passed away,'' the Marussia team said in a statement.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Maria's family and friends at this very difficult time.''

Two-time Formula One champion Fernando Alonso said he was in shock after finding out the news ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka this weekend.

``It's hard to talk about Maria de Villota right now, as I had only just taken my helmet off, when I was told about her death and at the moment, I still can't believe it and need a while to stop and think about it,'' he said.

``Of course, it's very sad news for the world of motorsport as Maria was loved by everyone. Now, all we can do is pray for her and for her family.''

Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Maria de Villota following the tragic news of her passing today

"Her courage, determination and hope were an example and inspiration to many. She will be sadly missed by our sport."

De Villota had previously competed in Spanish Formula 3 and the Daytona 24 Hours race.

She was born in Madrid and had competed in various Spanish races since 2001.

In 2010 she finished fourth at the Nurburgring in Superleague Formula.

De Villota had hoped to become just the third woman in history to take part in a Formula One race and Sauber team principal Monisha Kaltenborn, who became the first female team principal in the sport in 2012, hopes she has left a legacy for future female drivers to follow.

"If anybody represented strength and optimism, it was Mara,'' she said.

"Her sudden death is a big loss to the motorsport world as she was an important ambassador for relaying important messages to the youth, and particularly girls that aspire to a career in motorsport. Mara was an example of someone who never gave up, she always had a smile on her face and we will dearly miss her.''

"She gave young girls strength. Undergoing what she did and to still come out there and still be so convinced.

"Even if she maybe couldn't drive in Formula One the way she dreamt (after the crash), she didn't give up her passion. Hopefully she has made a difference. Now it's up to us to transfer that message further.''

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Spanish Formula One driver Maria De Villota has been found dead in a hotel room in Spain. Picture: APSource: AFP

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